Babysitting Options for Children with Autism

Opportunities for Respite Services Available to Families of Children with Special Needs

As parents and caregivers, we love our children dearly. We do everything in our power to bring them joy and often sacrifice pieces of our own lives for them. We would give them the world, if we could. But sometimes we need a break!

There’s just one problem. It can be difficult to find someone to look after a child with autism in order to give parents a night – or even an hour – to themselves. Whether it’s due to others’ unwillingness or inability, strapped finances or our own fear or lack of trust, it’s often easier just to take our kids with us than to have some alone time.

At Hopebridge, we know kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental delays often require extra care. We know you do, too, which is why we polled our parents and did some investigating to develop a list of respite resources when you’re in need of some R&R.

7 Ways to Find a Babysitter for Children with Special Needs

1. Talk to your child’s therapist

Simply asking your child’s RBT, BCBA or other therapist is often a good place to start when trying to find a babysitter. While it can be a conflict of interest for them to handle directly, this person understands your child’s needs and is likely to point you in the right direction. Your child’s clinicians may know about external resources and contacts to share with you.

2. Ask your family members or close friends

This one seems like a given, but that’s not necessarily the case for everyone. You may feel uncomfortable putting the pressure on your family, but we often hear they are honored to be asked and happy to take on the job. A huge benefit is the built-in trust and familiarity with your child, plus it’s a great option for those who are financially conscious. If you want to find a way to repay them, you can offer to buy them dinner as a thank-you!

“My family is my biggest help,” says Hopebridge mom, LaSonya.

Here’s a quick rule we like to use for family members: promise each other you will use open, respectful communication during this time. That way, you are both are comfortable discussing changes or whether the arrangement is not working out, all without the risk of altering relationships.

“A friend occasionally watches our kids; my parents every once in a while, and another mom who runs a daycare. We go out to dinner sometimes, see friends and enjoy adult conversation … and sometimes we do nothing except watch some Netflix and enjoy the quiet,” said another Hopebridge mama, Holly.

3. Plan with other parents

Consider teaming up with other Hopebridge families. If anyone understands your situation, it’s other caregivers. While each child is different, they will be more familiar with some of the behaviors and needs that will come into play. You can offer to watch their child for an hour in exchange for childcare to watch over your own another day. If that doesn’t yet feel right to each of you, a group play date can at least get you some adult conversation, plus you might learn they have access to a babysitter they’re willing to “share” with you.

“I find play dates take some of the pressure off because more than one person is watching each kid,” said Hopebridge mom, Jen.

4. Research reputable websites

You’ve likely heard of sites like Care.com and Sittercity.com, but did you know they have special sections to find nannies and babysitters for children with special needs? They cover a range of areas. Even better, many of these potential sitters have direct experience working for kids with differing abilities. Most have worked in autism-related facilities, have family members who have ASD or served as a nanny for children with similar abilities and behaviors.

Rates for these sites vary. They also charge membership fees, which could be a turn-off for some, however the cost goes towards carefully vetting potential caregivers for you, which is worth it in the long run. If you choose to go this route, we still recommend interviewing candidates and checking several references before entrusting them with your child.

5. Take advantage of Parents’ Night Out

Here’s an option both you and your kids will enjoy: Parents’ Night Out. Some of your local establishments like We Rock the Spectrum may offer opportunities for your child to get a few hours of fun and games (in an atmosphere they hopefully already know and love!), while you get the same time to relax or grab a date with a friend. Many of these autism-friendly play spaces also allow you to schedule your kid for group care or one-on-one time.

“My son had a blast and my fiance and I were able to get to things we needed to get done. We are big movie buffs so sometimes we will go see a movie, go to dinner, or our favorite, laser tag,” said Hopebridge parent, Crystal.

6. Look into your faith community

Some Hopebridge families share with us that their places of worship were good places to find help, either through direct asks or posting a bulletin on the community board. They’ve found that even if these individuals had not directly worked with children with autism in the past, many were caring, patient and willing to learn.

“Some of the retired women from our church have watched after our son. They are laid back and relaxed, which works well for our boy. Structure is good, but we also need someone who is able to manipulate structure, when needed. We are lucky to have found caring people who have been able to do that for us,” said Hopebridge parent, Angela.

7. Contact local college-level special education programs

If there is a local school that offers certifications or training in areas such as speech therapy, occupational therapy or applied behavior analysis, it is worthwhile to give the office a call. There may be students who are educated in the needs of individuals with autism and is interested in working with you to gain more experience.

8. Seek out support groups

While this may not be the type of babysitter you were originally intending, support groups can provide an untraditional yet healthy chance at respite for you. Some of our Hopebridge families have therapeutic recommendations that include childcare.

Crystal, another Hopebridge mom said, “There is a support group in Jeffersonville, Indiana. It’s called Reach In. It’s for parents with children who have disabilities. They also have childcare.”

No matter which route you choose, it helps if your child is familiar with the sitter. If this person doesn’t have experience with your child or other children with social or behavior challenges, we suggest inviting the sitter for an informal “play date” where they can observe and interact while you are present. You can also use this time to be up front about your child’s needs and challenges.

As a final rule, we also highly suggest checking two or three references before hiring anyone outside of your close friends and family.

If your family could use more support beyond babysitting options, Hopebridge is here for you. We have a range of educational resources on our blog, plus provide autism diagnostic services and quality, compassionate therapies such as ABA, speech and occupational therapy. Reach out to us today if we can play a helping role in helping your child thrive in a happy, fulfilling life.